Nominations Open for 2013 Heroes Game

Most of us know that Nebraska’s 2013 Heroes Game against Iowa is Friday, Nov. 29th, but did we ever tell you that we need another real-life hero like Jason Parks, Nebraska’s 2012 Hero of the Year? Parks was honored last November in Iowa City when the Huskers defeated the Hawkeyes, 13-7, in the second annual Heroes Game presented by Hy-Vee. Parks, who saved the life of a truck driver, didn’t get to wave to an appreciative Nebraska sellout crowd last year, so he made up for that lost opportunity at Saturday's 59-20 Nebraska win over South Dakota State in Memorial Stadium. The Huskers' final regular-season non-conference game also served as the 2013 kickoff for Hy-Vee’s Call for Nominations.

“We’re glad Jason was introduced at halftime of Saturday’s game, so all of our fans can show their appreciation for his heroic act,” Nebraska Assistant Athletic Director Michael Stephens said. “Jason’s instincts and selflessness define the kinds of heroes we’re looking for – everyday people who help others in a dire situation without hesitation.”

Parks was driving to work at his family’s business in Aurora, Neb., one morning when he saw two semi-trucks collide in his rear-view mirror. He doubled back to the scene of the accident, where he heard one of the drivers screaming for help from the flaming truck cab. Parks pulled the man from the wreckage and carried him to safety as the truck exploded behind them. For putting himself in danger to save the life of a complete stranger, Parks was Nebraska’s No. 1 Hero of the Year choice.

“Jason definitely deserves the honor he received, but what I like most about our Heroes Game is both states having so many deserving heroes for the roles they played in very similar experiences to Jason’s,” Stephens said. “There are all kinds of compelling stories out there where ordinary people go above and beyond.”